Lang Van is widely considered Charlotte’s most iconic restaurant. For over three decades, this family-run establishment in east Charlotte has been a legend among locals and chefs. Its reputation is built on an extensive 130-item menu of authentic Vietnamese food, the freshest ingredients, and the soulful hospitality of owner Dan Nguyen, who famously remembers his regulars’ orders. It even received rave reviews from the judges of Top Chef, solidifying its status as a can’t-miss culinary landmark.

Beef ‘N Bottle Steakhouse is a legendary Charlotte institution and the definitive old-school steakhouse. A fixture since 1958, it’s famous for its nostalgic atmosphere with candle-lit tables and dark paneling. It has been nationally recognized by USA Today’s 10Best as one of America’s top steakhouses for its aged, hand-cut steaks, prime rib, and classic sides like lobster tail.

The Fig Tree Restaurant is the perfect choice for a romantic dinner. It is located in a beautifully restored 1913 Craftsman-style bungalow in the Elizabeth neighborhood, creating an intimate and elegant setting. It is celebrated for its polished service, an award-winning wine list, and an impeccable French-Italian fine dining menu that features a famous elk chop.

Yes, Supperland became one of the city’s most talked-about restaurants shortly after opening in 2021. Its unique setting in a restored mid-century church provides a stunning backdrop. The concept, described as “Southern steakhouse meets church potluck,” offers a theatrical and unforgettable dining experience with whimsical, family-style dishes like wagyu pot roast.

For elevated Southern classics, Haberdish in the NoDa arts district is a local favorite, renowned for its crispy fried chicken with Alabama-white sauce and amazing craft cocktails. For soulful Lowcountry and Gullah cuisine, Mert’s Heart and Soul in Uptown is an institution, famous for dishes like shrimp & grits and its unique Soul Roll.

Absolutely. Alexander Michael’s, affectionately known as “Al Mike’s,” has been a cozy and historic neighborhood institution in the Fourth Ward since 1983. Housed in a building from 1897, it’s loved for its genuine European pub vibe, craft beers, and hearty comfort food dishes like the “What It Is” pasta.

Fin & Fino is a top downtown favorite that specializes in ultra-fresh seafood, earning its reputation as a premier “social seafood house.” It offers up to 12 varieties of oysters daily, a full raw bar, and dishes like scallops and grouper, all served in a lively “Carolina beachhouse” atmosphere with creative cocktails.

The famous Soul Roll is a unique and delicious creation from Mert’s Heart and Soul. It’s an eggroll filled with classic soul-food staples like collard greens, black-eyed peas, and seasoned rice. This signature dish became so famous it was featured on Guy Fieri’s Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives.

Yes, Cajun Queen has been Charlotte’s go-to spot for New Orleans cuisine for nearly 40 years. It offers live jazz music nightly on its upstairs terrace, which is located in a converted 1900s-era home, creating a lively and authentic atmosphere to enjoy with your Creole food.

Good Food on Montford earned this prestigious distinction shortly after it opened. It was a James Beard semi-finalist for Best New Restaurant, a testament to its inventive and influential global small plates concept, which blends Chef Bruce Moffett’s New England upbringing with Southern ingredients.